It could happen to anyone, and yet, it happened to a very happy, active young boy: A single tick bite would lead to years of pain and declining mobility for then 10-year-old Troy Murphy of Unionville, Conn.

Troy has suffered severe effects of Lyme Disease and other related infections stemming from that tick bite. Until recently, he was bedridden and unable to attend school, eat solid foods or even sit upright.

Now 13, Troy has seen his health improve slightly thanks to medicine and physical therapy. And though he isn’t yet walking and running, he’s able to go outside in a wheelchair with the assistance of his family. But doing so was much easier said than done: They would have to either carry him or navigate his wheelchair down several stairs.

HBRA of Central Connecticut pause for a photo as they work to build a wheelchair ramp for a local boy.

Thankfully, the remodelers council knew just what to do:

Through a partnership with — a local non-profit that provides financial support to those with short or long-term medical needs — several council members banded together to construct a wheelchair ramp to the exterior of the Murphy’s home.

On May 1, 15 remodelers council members from 12 companies donated their supplies and expertise, and together they completed the ramp in less than five hours.

While the project was a great start to National Home Remodeling Month in May, it will be a long-lasting benefit to Troy and his family, who were all extremely grateful for everyone involved.

“[The wheelchair ramp] opens a whole new world of possibilities for Troy,” said Alison Murphy, Troy’s mother. “He’s so excited to get outside.”